About This Object
An early 20th century needlework picture of an eagle, holding a banner with the motto: "e pluribus unum", above a stars-and-stripes shield and flags; on a blue silk background, in modern gilt frame.
Possibly Chinese export for American market, circa 1920's–30's.
We like the somewhat naive manner of this patriotic picture.
No restorations.
Size of the panel: 16 in by 17.5 in.
E pluribus unum – Latin for "Out of many, one" – is a traditional motto of the United States. The meaning of the phrase originates from the concept that out of the union of the original Thirteen Colonies emerged a new single nation. It is emblazoned across the scroll and clenched in the eagle's beak on the Great Seal of the United States. The thirteen-letter motto was suggested in 1776 by Pierre Eugene du Simitiere to the committee responsible for developing the seal; its inclusion on the seal was approved by an Act of Congress in 1782. While its status as national motto was for many years unofficial, E pluribus unum was still considered the de facto motto of the United States from its early history. Eventually, the United States Congress passed an act, adopting "In God We Trust" as the official motto in 1956.
